The friendly competition, scheduled to take place later this month, will now feature four U23 teams from China, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Thailand, and Vietnam.

Earlier information from the CFA indicated that U23 Iran would take part in the event. However, the Iranian team confirmed their withdrawal on March 5, prompting the organisers to invite Vietnam as a replacement.

According to Chinese media reports, the CFA initially selected a range of guest teams in order to give China’s U23 side the opportunity to face different opponents rather than repeatedly playing familiar teams such as Vietnam, Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea.

To prepare for the tournament, Vietnam’s U23 squad are expected to gather for training in Hanoi on March 17. The training camp is part of the Vietnam Football Federation’s long-term plan to develop young players and build a pipeline for the national team.

Through tournaments such as the CFA Team China Cup, the coaching staff hopes players will gain valuable international experience and improve their performance ahead of major competitions, including the 2026 Asian Games.

Vietnam are scheduled to play DPRK on March 25, Thailand on march 28 and hosts China on March 31.

The CFA Team China Cup, an annual U23 friendly tournament launched in 2024, aims to provide young players with more opportunities for international competition.

Vietnam to play Bangladesh in March friendly ahead of Asian Cup qualifier

VOV.VN - The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has announced plans for an international friendly between Vietnam and Bangladesh as part of FIFA Days in March ahead of Vietnam’s crucial Asian Cup qualifier with Malaysia.